Are you a risk taker? Do you think you have a stronger appetite for risk relative to your friends and family? We asked some folks from the community about their approaches to risk and have shared their thoughts below.

July Bailey | Recording Artist

I look at risks as a necessity in life. You have to take risks in order to grow as a person. If you really think about it, every decision is a risk. If you choose to play it safe, you’re risking fulfillment. If you choose to live on the edge, you’re risking stability. If you choose comfort, you risk growth. It’s all a risk. Read more>>

Shawn O’Gorman | Director of NIL and Sports Agent

Risk is everything. With no risk, there is no reward. My favorite quote in life is “The Dream is free, the hustle is sold separately”. When it comes to the dream and the hustle, risk is something that is guaranteed in life and your goals to make them happen. If you don’t roll the dice on yourself, double down on yourself, or go all in on yourself when the cards are dealt against you then no one ever will in your life. Read more>>

Kelly Knisel | Photographer

Taking risks is a huge gamble. However, without taking those risks, my career would have never climbed to where it is in such a short period of time. I believe taking risks is incredibly important for growth. If that risk you take doesn’t work out, you will ultimately learn from it and be able to improve for the future. Read more>>

CeeCee Weaver | Owner & Photographer of Pink Salt Photos

Risk Taking played a huge role in my life and career. Throughout my entire childhood I was told that I needed to find a job, stay at that job, and retire. I had 1 job out of college and worked my way up the corporate ladder for 15 years. Once I reached a certain point in my career I realized I wasn’t happy. Read more>>

Dee Goodson | Singer/Songwriter, Musician, Recording Artist

I would say in the industry that I’m in, almost 80% (if not more) of this business is taking risks. There’s a saying that goes “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take”, that applies perfectly to what I do. There’s so many “what if’s” in this like of work that it can be overwhelming sometimes, but if you let it consume you then you’ll never see how far you can really go. Read more>>

Jess Paternoster | Singer/Songwriter/Graphic Designer/Photographer

Changing my career from a Graphic Designer/Photographer of what I went to college for to a Singer/Songwriter that I’ve always been passionate about. This wasn’t an easy decision because it’s definitely a very risky chance, but I don’t want to go on life without trying out to see where my music journey would take me. Read more>>